what does it entail

USAGE SUMMARY

"What does it entail?" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when asking for an explanation or an understanding of a particular situation. For example: "The job description seems complicated; what does it entail?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Science & Research

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

What does it entail, to be a conduit from art to money?

The Guardian

What is his or her office now, and what does it entail?

The New York Times

What does it entail?

International Journal for Educational Integrity

How does one get "there" and what does it entail?

Science Magazine

If legitimacy is understood normatively, what does it entail?

SEP

How long is the warranty and what does it entail?

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

What did it entail, how many scare actors were there, etc.? MEACHAM: The Radley Haunted House truly started in 2007, a year after I began decorating my parents' house for Halloween.

Huffington Post

So what exactly does it entail to be a business fellow?

Science Magazine

Since the job description isn't even an above-the-line accreditation (you'll see "created by" or "executive producer" scroll past in the opening credits, but never "showrunner") what does it actually entail?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

WHAT ELSE TO LOOK FOR: Is it licensed or certified by the state, and what does that entail?

The New York Times

Each party has set out its own proposals, so what do they entail?

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "what does it entail" when you need a thorough explanation, not just a simple definition. It's suitable when asking about processes, responsibilities, or complex concepts.

Common error

While "entail" and "involve" can be similar, "entail" suggests a necessary consequence or condition. Avoid using "entail" when you simply mean to list elements that are part of something; "involve" might be more appropriate in those cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what does it entail" functions as an interrogative expression, seeking a detailed explanation or description of a particular activity, process, or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in English, suggesting it is suitable for eliciting comprehensive information.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

23%

Science & Research

13%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "what does it entail" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase for seeking detailed explanations. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. Its usage is most common in News & Media and Science-related contexts. When using this phrase, ensure you're looking for more than just a simple definition, but rather a comprehensive understanding of the elements, requirements, or implications involved. Alternatives like "what is involved" or "what are the requirements" may be more appropriate depending on the specific information you seek.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what is involved

Focuses on the elements or components that constitute a process or activity.

what does it include

Emphasizes the constituent parts or items encompassed within something.

what are the requirements

Specifically seeks the necessary conditions or criteria for something.

what is the process

Concentrates on the series of actions or steps taken to achieve a particular end.

what is required

Highlights the essential actions or resources needed for a specific purpose.

what does it mean

Seeks a definition or the significance of something.

what are the implications

Focuses on the potential effects or consequences of something.

what are the steps

Seeks the specific sequence of actions that need to be taken.

how does it work

Asks for an explanation of the mechanics or functionality of something.

what is the scope

Focuses on the extent or range of something.

FAQs

How can I use "what does it entail" in a sentence?

You can use "what does it entail" when asking for a detailed explanation or description of something. For example, "The job description is vague; what does it entail?" or "What does this new policy entail for employees?

Are there more formal alternatives to "what does it entail"?

Yes, more formal alternatives include "what are the requirements", "what are the obligations", or "what are the specifications?" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "what does it entail" and "what does it involve"?

"What does it entail" suggests a necessary consequence or condition, while "what does it involve" simply asks for a list of elements that are part of something. For example, "Being a CEO entails long hours and significant responsibility" versus "The project involves research, writing, and presentation".

Is it appropriate to use "what does it entail" in professional communication?

Yes, "what does it entail" is suitable for professional communication when seeking a detailed explanation. However, ensure the tone remains respectful and clear.